What is Impact Whey Protein?
Impact Whey Protein is a whey protein concentrate produced by Myprotein, a prominent sports nutrition company. As a concentrate, it is one of the less processed forms of whey protein, which means it retains more of the natural fats and carbohydrates found in milk compared to more refined products like whey protein isolate. The processing involves separating the whey liquid from milk curd during cheese production, followed by pasteurization and concentration.
Nutritional Breakdown and Key Features
A typical serving of Impact Whey Protein provides a solid macronutrient profile suitable for many fitness goals. While the exact values can vary slightly by flavor, the protein content generally falls between 17 and 22 grams per serving. Each scoop is also fortified with branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which are crucial for muscle repair and growth. The formula is relatively low in fats and carbs, although it contains more of both than a whey isolate product. This makes it a great all-around option for daily protein supplementation.
Informed Choice Certification
A significant selling point for Myprotein's Impact Whey is its Informed Choice certification. This third-party testing process ensures that the product has been regularly tested for a range of substances banned in sport. This offers peace of mind to competitive athletes who must be vigilant about the supplements they consume.
Taste and Mixability: A Mixed Bag
Customer feedback on the taste and mixability of Impact Whey Protein is varied, largely depending on the specific flavor and the liquid used.
- Flavor Variety: Myprotein is well-known for its extensive range of flavors, offering dozens of options from classic chocolate and vanilla to more adventurous choices like cinnamon cereal and salted caramel. This variety is a major plus, allowing users to find a taste they enjoy and prevent flavor fatigue.
- Sweeteners: Many of the flavored versions use artificial sweeteners, particularly sucralose. While this keeps the sugar content low, some users report a noticeable and sometimes unpleasant artificial aftertaste.
- Mixing with Water: Mixing Impact Whey with water often results in a thin, watery, and sometimes grainy texture. For those who prefer a creamier shake, this might not be the best option.
- Mixing with Milk: For a smoother, thicker, and more milkshake-like consistency, most reviewers agree that mixing the powder with milk is the best approach. This can significantly improve the taste and texture.
Impact Whey Protein vs. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard
To help you decide if Impact Whey is right for you, here is a comparison with a major competitor, Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey.
| Feature | Myprotein Impact Whey | Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Protein Source | Whey Protein Concentrate | Blend of Isolate, Concentrate, and Peptides |
| Price | Generally more affordable and offers better value | Priced higher as a premium brand |
| Lactose Content | Contains lactose; may cause issues for sensitive individuals | Lower lactose content due to isolate blend |
| Nutrient Profile | Low in carbs and fat, but slightly higher than isolates | Very low in carbs and fat, higher protein purity |
| Digestion | Slower absorption due to concentrate | Faster absorption due to isolate and peptides |
Potential Side Effects
Like any protein supplement, some people may experience side effects with Impact Whey. The most common issues relate to digestion, such as bloating, gas, cramps, and nausea. These are often associated with the lactose content present in whey concentrate. For those with significant lactose intolerance, the more filtered Impact Whey Isolate or a plant-based protein might be a better choice.
Conclusion: Is Impact Whey Protein a Good Choice?
Ultimately, is Impact Whey Protein good? The answer is a qualified yes, depending on your priorities. For those on a budget looking for a reliable, effective source of protein to support muscle growth and recovery, Impact Whey Protein is an excellent choice. It offers great value, a robust protein and BCAA profile, and is certified free from banned substances. However, if you are lactose intolerant, highly sensitive to artificial sweeteners, or need the purest, fastest-absorbing protein for competitive reasons, you may want to consider other options like a whey isolate. For most average gym-goers and fitness enthusiasts, Impact Whey delivers a high-quality product at an accessible price point, making it a perfectly good and practical addition to a balanced diet and exercise routine.
References
[1] Myprotein. (2024). Impact Whey Protein Powder. URL [2] BarBend. (2024). Myprotein Impact Whey Review (2025 Update). URL
